T-Shirt Measurements and Fit
A great tee in the wrong size is a wasted tee. This hub explains the key measurements, what each fit is meant to do and how to read a size chart, so you can buy with confidence online. For brand-specific numbers, always check the size guides (/pages/size-guides).
Key measurements
Chest Measurement
The most important tee measurement -- taken flat across the garment or around the fullest part of your chest.
How to measure
Measure around the fullest part of your chest, under the arms, keeping the tape level. Compare it to the brand's chart rather than guessing S/M/L.
Why it matters
Chest is the number that decides whether a tee fits; sleeve and length follow from it. It is the first thing to check on any size guide.
Body Length
The distance from the highest point of the shoulder to the hem, deciding where the tee sits on the hips.
How to measure
Measure a tee that fits you well from the shoulder seam straight down to the hem, and match new tees to it.
Style effect
A shorter length suits a tucked or cropped look; extra length suits an oversized, untucked silhouette.
Shoulder Width
The seam-to-seam distance across the back, which sets where the sleeves begin.
Why it matters
If the shoulder seam falls past the edge of your shoulder, the tee is cut loose or oversized by design; on the shoulder means a regular or slim fit.
Getting it right
Shoulder fit is hard to alter, so prioritise it -- a tee that fits the shoulders usually looks right elsewhere.
Sleeve Length
How far the sleeve extends down the arm, from a short mid-bicep cut to a full-length sleeve.
The guide
A short sleeve should end around the mid-bicep; too long looks baggy, too short looks cropped.
Fit note
Slim tees have a closer, shorter sleeve; relaxed and oversized tees run longer and wider.
Fit types
Slim Fit
A close cut through chest, waist and sleeve for a sharp, tailored line.
How it should sit
Slim fit follows the body without pulling. You should still be able to pinch a little fabric at the waist.
Best for
Leaner and athletic builds, and anyone wearing tees under tailoring.
Regular Fit
A balanced, forgiving cut with a little room through the body -- the everyday default.
How it should sit
Regular fit skims the chest and drapes lightly at the waist without clinging or billowing.
Best for
Most builds and the easiest fit to layer. If unsure, start here.
Relaxed Fit
A roomier cut than regular, with more space through the body and sleeve for comfort.
How it should sit
Relaxed fit hangs away from the body for an easy, casual look while still following the shoulders.
Best for
Comfort-led wear and warmer weather, and a middle ground between regular and oversized.
Oversized Fit
A deliberately large, boxy cut with dropped shoulders and extra length.
How it should sit
The shoulder seam sits well down the arm and the body is wide and straight. It is meant to look loose, not to be sized down.
Fabric link
Oversized works best in heavier jersey so the drape holds -- see fabric weight in the performance hub (/pages/tshirt-performance).
Muscle Fit
A very close cut engineered to follow a trained physique, usually with stretch built in.
How it should sit
Muscle fit hugs the chest, shoulders and arms closely; elastane keeps it comfortable rather than restrictive.
Best for
Athletic and muscular builds who want a defined line. Not intended to be roomy.
Getting it right
Reading a Size Chart
The habit that removes guesswork -- match garment measurements to your own rather than trusting the letter size.
The method
Measure a tee you already love, then compare its chest and length to the online chart. Sizes vary between brands and cuts.
Where to look
Every brand's numbers live on the size guides page (/pages/size-guides); check it before you order.
Frequently asked questions
How do I measure my chest for a t-shirt?
Run a tape around the fullest part of your chest, under the arms and level across the back, then compare the figure to the brand's size chart rather than assuming a letter size.
Should a t-shirt shoulder seam sit on my shoulder?
For a regular or slim fit, yes -- the seam should sit at the edge of your shoulder. If it falls down the arm, the tee is cut relaxed or oversized by design.
What is the difference between slim and muscle fit?
Slim fit is a close, tailored cut for a lean line; muscle fit is even closer and shaped specifically to follow a trained physique, usually with added stretch.